Hobbies & Crafts

Try a large piece of burlap for a tablecloth, or a strip of burlap for a table runner. The burlap can easily be stenciled or stamped (especially with the large foam stamps using a fabric paint) if you desire. Because the edges are rough, burlap is better suited to a table runner or table overlay than a tablecloth that will touch the laps of your dinner guests.

You may want to unravel the edges of the burlap for a few threads to create an interesting fringe. Just pull a couple of threads that run the length of the burlap, and let the cross-threads stay to make the fringe. You can also do this on the ends by removing the cross-threads and allowing those that run the length to fringe out.

Coarsely woven placemats in fall solid colors make a nice complement and set your country-fall background. If you are fortunate enough to have stoneware dishes in the same solids, you can mix and match colors to make a very cozy and colorful table setting. (Usually it is much easier to find placemats, so you may want to buy dishes first if you are making new purchases for this setting.) Don't worry about all of your dishes matching if you are going for a rustic look. Variety is more authentic and charming. (And if you need dishes such as these, try visiting flea markets or garage sales ... you might get lucky!)

You can also make these placemats from burlap in the same way you made the table runner or cover, fringing the edges if desired. (Usually it is better to fringe only the sides of placemats.) You can try dyeing them in fall colors, or you may want to applique silk fall leaves onto them, or stamp a design onto them.